2003 Kia Sorento vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Kia Sorento is newer by 5 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Kia Sorento. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Sorento weights approximately 170 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Sorento 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, 2003 Kia Sorento (314 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Sorento | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sorento | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 2798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 314 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
