2009 Kia Optima vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 551 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.4 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 17 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 14.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 80 L |
