2004 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 397 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (801 Nm) has 602 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | CL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 18.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
