2007 Kia Carens vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Kia Carens is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (151 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Kia Carens. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Carens weights approximately 146 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Kia Carens, 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, 2007 Kia Carens (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 2007 Kia Carens has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Carens will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Carens | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Carens | C |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
