2006 Kia Sorento vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Kia Sorento is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2006 Kia Sorento. (192 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Sorento weights approximately 430 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sorento, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Sorento. (294 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Sorento.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sorento | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sorento | C |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 69 L |
