2009 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 229 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
