2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 318 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | SLK | Optima |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 161 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 209 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1583 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |