2008 Kia Sorento vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Kia Sorento. (139 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sorento weights approximately 695 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2008 Kia Sorento is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sorento | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sorento | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
