2008 Kia Carens vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
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 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Kia Carens. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carens weights approximately 111 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (316 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Carens. (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Carens.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carens | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Carens | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1631 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
