2008 Kia Sportage vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 325 kg more than 2008 Kia Sportage.
Because 2008 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage 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 Sportage (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sportage | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 85 L |
