2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 70 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | C | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
