2005 Kia Rio vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Rio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Rio would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 561 kg more than 2005 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Rio, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (115 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2005 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2005 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | SLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1341 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 944 kg | 1505 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
