2005 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
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 ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 698 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | ML |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 97 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
