2005 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 388 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 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | S |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 4964 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 460 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 | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |