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 5,438 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 294 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 (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 471 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 | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 5438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
