1981 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2005 Kia Carnival

To start off, 2005 Kia Carnival is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Carnival is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Carnival (148 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Carnival should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Carnival weights approximately 157 kg more than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1981 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Kia Carnival. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Kia Carnival (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Carnival will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz G. 2005 Kia Carnival has automatic transmission and 1981 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1981 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Kia Carnival will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Mercedes-Benz G 2005 Kia Carnival
Make Mercedes-Benz Kia
Model G Carnival
Year Released 1981 2005
Body Type SUV Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2299 cc 2495 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 125 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 186 Nm 224 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Vehicle Weight 1930 kg 2087 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 4930 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1940 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2910 mm