2004 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 9 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
