2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2012 Kia Sportage is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 317 more horse power than 2012 Kia Sportage. (176 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Sportage.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sportage, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 572 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Sportage. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Sportage. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Sportage has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Sportage will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Kia Sportage | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | SL | Sportage |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1854 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1636 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |