2006 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 324 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1676 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 10.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 16.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
