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 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Carens (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 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.
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 (162 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 32 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Carens has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Carens will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1793 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
