2005 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 638 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm) has 602 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
