2006 Kia Optima vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 198 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
