2005 Kia Sorento vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Kia Sorento is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Kia Sorento. (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Sorento weights approximately 327 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Sorento 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, 2005 Kia Sorento (294 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. (267 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2005 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Sorento | 1989 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sorento | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3495 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2017 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
