2003 Kia Opirus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Opirus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Opirus would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 2003 Kia Opirus. (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Opirus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 331 kg more than 2003 Kia Opirus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm) has 505 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Opirus. (295 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Opirus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Opirus | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Opirus | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 5506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 2091 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
