1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 259 kg more than 2011 Kia Forte.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2011 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | CLK | Forte |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
