1999 Kia Rio vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Rio would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 420 more horse power than 1999 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 860 kg more than 1999 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Rio, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 579 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Rio. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 1999 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Rio | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2570 mm |
