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 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 157 more horse power than 2003 Kia Sorento. (192 HP @ 5750 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Sorento. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Sorento.
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 | 3489 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 192 HP | 349 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1820 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 |