2006 Kia Optima vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (95 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 142 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 200 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
