2004 Kia Optima vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 102 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1986 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 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 14.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
