2005 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (229 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 73 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
