2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 407 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | S | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4250 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 | 1990 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
