2008 Kia Sorento vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sorento (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Kia Sorento.
Because 2008 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento will offer significantly more control. 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 Sorento (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2008 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sorento | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sorento | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
