2005 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 377 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (241 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
