2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2012 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 24 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Forte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | SLK | Forte |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
