2004 Kia Retona vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Kia Retona is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. Both 2004 Kia Retona and 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2004 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Retona weights approximately 580 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Retona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Retona | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Retona | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 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 | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2410 mm |
