2006 Kia Optima vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Kia Optima 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 9 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 38 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
