2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
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 Vaneo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 75 L |
