1996 Kia Clarus vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL (494 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1996 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 855 kg more than 1996 Kia Clarus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 648 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Kia Clarus | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Clarus | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2890 mm |
