2005 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 72 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Kia Optima | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | E |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 190 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |