2004 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 47 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
