2007 Kia Optima vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Kia Optima (162 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (160 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Optima. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Optima | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | SLK |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2032 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
