2009 Kia Optima vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 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. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2940 mm |
