2009 Kia Optima vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1991 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 1991 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 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 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | 500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
