2005 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 13 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | SLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 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 | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
