1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2011 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 811 kg more than 2011 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | E | Forte |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
