2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 247 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | CLK | Optima |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
