2007 Kia Sedona vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Kia Sedona is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2007 Kia Sedona. (142 HP @ 2000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Sedona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Sedona weights approximately 331 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Kia Sedona, 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 SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Sedona. (310 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Sedona. 2007 Kia Sedona has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Sedona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Sedona | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sedona | SL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2901 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 2000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2100 kg | 1769 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
