2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Kia Forte

To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 349 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte.

Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte. 2012 Kia Forte has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Mercedes-Benz C 2012 Kia Forte
Make Mercedes-Benz Kia
Model C Forte
Year Released 2007 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2148 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 156 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1590 kg 1241 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4481 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2649 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 52 L