2004 Kia Optima vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 267 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (316 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Kia Optima | 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 137 HP | 217 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 316 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |