2005 Kia Spectra5 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra5. (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 520 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra5, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Spectra5. (180 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Spectra5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra5 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra5 | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
