2005 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 43 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 2006 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 2006 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 68.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
