2002 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Kia Rio is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 786 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 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 1998 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Rio | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 113 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1806 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2830 mm |
