2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
