Vehicle price comparison
Mercedes S Class vs Kia Optima Starter prices
Saurabh Kumar
Co-Founder & CTO, Part Price Guide
Built the pricing pipeline that collects and normalizes used OEM part listings from salvage yards and online marketplaces across the US.
Ambika Sharma
Co-Founder & COO, Part Price Guide
12 years of project management and technical operations experience. Reviews price guides for sample size, fitment accuracy, and data freshness.
Price face-off
Median price comparison
Condition comparison
How does the price differ by part grade?
Market analysis
Why does the Mercedes S Class starter cost more?
A used Mercedes S Class starter carries a median asking price of $125, which is 74% higher than the Kia Optima at $72. Supply also plays a role: Mercedes S Class has 2,194 priced listings versus 692 for Kia Optima, and more listings generally mean more choices and more competitive pricing.
The Kia Optima average ($115) runs 60% above its median ($72), indicating a tail of high-priced listings — likely low-mileage or remanufactured units pulling the average up.
Our guide covers 10 model years for the Mercedes S Class (2015–2024) but only 6 for the Kia Optima (2015–2020), so the Mercedes S Class data reflects a broader range of generations.
Only 63% of Kia Optima starter listings include a posted price (692 of 1,100 observed) — the rest are "call for price," which usually signals negotiable or higher-than-average pricing.
At Grade B (good) condition, the Kia Optima is 58% cheaper ($72 vs $171) — the gap widens compared to the overall median difference.
Buyer's checklist
What to check before buying a used starter
- Match the bolt pattern and nose cone length — starters from the same engine family may physically bolt up but not engage the flywheel correctly.
- Check the solenoid for corrosion on the electrical terminals.
- Ask whether it was bench-tested. A starter should crank firmly without excessive draw.
- Verify the tooth count on the drive gear matches your flywheel or flexplate.
Full price guide
Mercedes S Class Starter
$30 – $400 · 2,194 listings
Full price guide
Kia Optima Starter
$15 – $307 · 692 listings
Common questions
Mercedes S Class vs Kia Optima starter FAQ
Is a used Mercedes S Class starter cheaper than a Kia Optima?
Kia Optima has the lower median by $53 (74%). The Kia Optima starter ranges from $15 to $307 across 692 listings, while the Mercedes S Class ranges from $30 to $400 across 2,194 listings.
Can I use a Mercedes S Class starter in a Kia Optima?
This comparison describes pricing, not interchangeability. Even when two parts share similar prices, they may require different engines, trims, electronics, or mounting points. Always match the seller's part number against your VIN before purchasing.
How many listings does this comparison cover?
This comparison draws from 2,194 priced Mercedes S Class listings and 692 priced Kia Optima listings — 2,886 in total.
How does condition grade affect the price?
Part condition significantly impacts price. Grade A (Excellent): Mercedes S Class $131 vs Kia Optima $110. Grade B (Good): Mercedes S Class $171 vs Kia Optima $72. Grade C (Fair): Mercedes S Class $75 vs Kia Optima $50. Grade A parts are in excellent condition, B is good, and C is fair — always confirm grading criteria with the seller.
Are there different trim variants to choose from?
Yes. The Mercedes S Class starter has 1 trim variant and the Kia Optima has 3. Variants differ by engine size, drivetrain, or part number — matching the right variant is critical for proper fitment.
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