2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 9 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), 2013 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (197 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 31 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (252 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | C | Optima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 141 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
