2009 Kia Optima vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 78 L |
