2002 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 2002 Kia Rio. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 800 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 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (530 Nm) has 417 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Rio. (113 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Rio. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Kia Rio | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Rio | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1343 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 349 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 113 Nm | 530 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 71.6 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.3 mm | 92 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2520 mm |