1965 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 35 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte, 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, 2012 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | SL | Forte |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
