2003 Kia Retona vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2003 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Retona weights approximately 345 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2003 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Retona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Retona | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Retona | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2720 mm |
