2011 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Kia Optima would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2011 Kia Optima. (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | SL |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 274 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
