2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Kia Clarus
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (202 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1999 Kia Clarus. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 245 kg more than 1999 Kia Clarus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus, 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 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Clarus. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Clarus. 1999 Kia Clarus has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Kia Clarus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 Kia Clarus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | C | Clarus |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
