2004 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 162 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
