2008 Kia Rio vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2008 Kia Rio. (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1062 kg more than 2008 Kia Rio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1491 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1153 kg | 2215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2870 mm |
