2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (166 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 52 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 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (209 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | C | Optima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1583 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
