2002 Kia Rio vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Kia Rio is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 940 kg more than 2002 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 S (330 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
