2009 Kia Optima vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (242 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 21 kg more than 2009 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | 500 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2656 cc | 4972 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 194 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 401 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |