2005 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 352 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | R |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
