1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2005 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Spectra (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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, 2005 Kia Spectra (192 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2005 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | C | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
