2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 200 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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 (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (351 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | S | Optima |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 351 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |