2005 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 4 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 958 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (531 Nm) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | GL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 14.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 100 L |
