2006 Kia Sorento vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Kia Sorento is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Sorento (192 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (185 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 50 kg more than 2006 Kia Sorento.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Kia Sorento (294 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 2006 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Sorento | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sorento | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
