2004 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 13 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2004 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 69 L |
