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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 779 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2148 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
