2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2012 Kia Forte. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1119 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Forte. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz GL (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | GL | Forte |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2454 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
