2004 Kia Sportage vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2004 Kia Sportage is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 23 more horse power than 2004 Kia Sportage. (111 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Sportage.
Because 2004 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Sportage 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, 2004 Kia Sportage (245 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Sportage | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sportage | 230 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
