2006 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, both 2006 Kia Optima and 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK were released in the same year (2006). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 4,966 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 227 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | CLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 4966 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
