2004 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 2 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 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 247 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (199 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | B |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
