2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (175 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 21 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Kia Optima (252 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | C | Optima |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 252 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |