2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (164 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 322 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. 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, 2012 Kia Soul, 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 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | C | Soul |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 48 L |
