1998 Kia Retona vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Kia Retona would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (286 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 430 kg more than 1998 Kia Retona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz ML (511 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Retona. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1998 Kia Retona has manual transmission. 1998 Kia Retona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Retona | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Retona | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 2300 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
