1996 Kia Clarus vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1996 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 305 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Kia Clarus | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Clarus | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
