2008 Kia Rio vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2008 Kia Rio. (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 737 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (450 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Rio has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Rio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | 500 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1491 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1153 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
