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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 276 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 258 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 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 | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
