2004 Kia Optima vs. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. (123 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 132 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 (250 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1982 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
