2006 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 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, 2006 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 162 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
