2001 Kia Rio vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2001 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 485 kg more than 2001 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Rio. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2700 mm |
