2008 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 2012 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 642 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Forte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Kia Forte | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | S | Forte |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1238 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4529 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1775 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2649 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |