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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 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 493 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (400 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 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 | 2670 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
