2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 67 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | CLK | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
