2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3224 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 479 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
