1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Kia Forte

To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2011 Kia Forte. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2011 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Forte. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Forte. 2011 Kia Forte has automatic transmission and 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 2011 Kia Forte
Make Mercedes-Benz Kia
Model 300 Forte
Year Released 1986 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 185 HP 173 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 260 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1590 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 4481 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2649 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 10 L/100km 7.4 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 14.2 L/100km 10.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 72 L 52 L