2004 Kia Optima vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima 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 22 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 553 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano (330 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | Viano |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
