2008 Kia Carnival vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Kia Carnival is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2008 Kia Carnival. (186 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Carnival. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Carnival weights approximately 134 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Carnival, 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 S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Carnival. (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Carnival.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Carnival | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Carnival | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2024 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
