2003 Kia Opirus vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Kia Opirus. (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Opirus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 70 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Kia Opirus (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Opirus | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Opirus | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 196 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4960 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
