1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Kia Sorento
To start off, 2012 Kia Sorento is newer by 23 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Sorento (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Sorento weights approximately 314 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2012 Kia Sorento, 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 Sorento (336 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Kia Sorento | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | 300 | Sorento |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1804 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2700 mm |
