1997 Kia Retona vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Retona would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1997 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Retona.
Because 1997 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Retona. (206 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Retona. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1997 Kia Retona has manual transmission. 1997 Kia Retona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Kia Retona | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Retona | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2560 mm |
