2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Kia Clarus
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (248 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1999 Kia Clarus. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 810 kg more than 1999 Kia Clarus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Clarus. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Kia Clarus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | S | Clarus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2040 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
