2009 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano
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 Viano. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 34 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (141 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. 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 Viano (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | Viano |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
