2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 494 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 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |