2003 Kia Retona vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Retona would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Kia Retona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2003 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Retona weights approximately 425 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2003 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Retona will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Retona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Retona | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Retona | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2570 mm |
