2002 Kia Optima vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 233 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | CLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
