2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2009 Kia Forte
To start off, 2009 Kia Forte is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2009 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 977 kg more than 2009 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Forte, 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2009 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | SLK | Forte |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 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 | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
