2008 Kia Opirus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Kia Opirus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Opirus (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Opirus should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Opirus weights approximately 137 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Opirus, 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, 2008 Kia Opirus (298 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2008 Kia Opirus has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Kia Opirus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Opirus | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1897 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |