2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,147 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 65 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (270 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | E | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2147 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
