2005 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 29 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 33 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.9 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 69 L |
