2004 Kia Spectra vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2004 Kia Spectra. (124 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 766 kg more than 2004 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Spectra. (161 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 3997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |
