2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 489 kg more than 2008 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra | 1998 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | V |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3010 mm |
