2009 Kia Optima vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (95 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (158 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 200 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
