2005 Kia Spectra vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Spectra (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 296 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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, 2005 Kia Spectra (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 has automatic transmission and 2005 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2005 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 200 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | 200 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1094 kg | 1390 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
