Optima IV (JF) vs C-Class W205: which is better?
Kia Optima IV (JF) (2015–2020) vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205 (2014–2021): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Specifications
| Kia Optima IV (JF) | Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2015–2020 | 2014–2021 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.4 | 2.0 Turbo (C200) |
| Power, up to | 188 hp | 184 hp |
| Torque, up to | 241 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 855 mm | 4 686 mm |
| Width | 1 860 mm | 1 810 mm |
| Height | 1 465 mm | 1 442 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 805 mm | 2 840 mm |
| Ground clearance | 155 mm | — |
| Fuel tank | 70 L | 66 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 28 750 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Kia Optima IV (JF)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 188 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 70 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Theta II engine (G4KD, G4KE, G4KJ): cylinder scoring (especially the direct-injection G4KJ)
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Theta II (G4KD, G4KE, G4KJ)): cylinder scoring (especially the direct-injection G4KJ); knocking and oil consumption; catalytic converter debris in the cylinders.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W205
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M274/M264 (2.0): timing chain stretch and tensioner
- Gearbox Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9): control board failure (speed sensors)
Engine (Mercedes M274/M264 (2.0)): timing chain stretch and tensioner; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9)): control board failure (speed sensors); valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- Optima IV (JF) — if you care more about: power, fuel tank.
- C-Class W205 — if you care more about: torque, wheelbase, kz tax 2026.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Optima IV (JF) or C-Class W205?
Optima IV (JF): up to 188 hp, C-Class W205: up to 184 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Optima IV (JF) — about 28 750 ₸, C-Class W205 — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.