2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 250 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | E | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
