2008 Kia Carens vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Kia Carens is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Carens (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carens weights approximately 611 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Kia Carens (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carens | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Carens | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1631 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
