1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1999 Kia Clarus
To start off, 1999 Kia Clarus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1999 Kia Clarus. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 238 kg more than 1999 Kia Clarus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Clarus. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Clarus. 1999 Kia Clarus has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Kia Clarus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1999 Kia Clarus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | 300 | Clarus |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2670 mm |
