2006 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 125 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 501 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Kia Optima | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | SL |
Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2351 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 494 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 199 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |