2005 Kia Optima vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 724 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 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML (460 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | ML |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 288 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 | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 2211 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 17 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 86 L |
