2004 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 247 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (365 Nm) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | CLS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
