2008 Kia Rio vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 274 kg more than 2008 Kia Rio.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio, 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio. 2008 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | 230 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2305 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1101 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
