2004 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 113 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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 E (270 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2147 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 270 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 Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
