2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 2012 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 697 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 505 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Kia Forte | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | S | Forte |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1288 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4341 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1775 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2649 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 52 L |