2002 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 813 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm) has 613 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 829 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 2245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3165 mm |
