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 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 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 233 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 (250 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (245 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
