2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (274 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 289 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | CLK | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1824 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
