2009 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 81 kg more than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (271 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
