2005 Kia Spectra vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Spectra (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Spectra weights approximately 195 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (192 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
