2009 Kia Magentis vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Kia Magentis is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2009 Kia Magentis. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Magentis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 290 kg more than 2009 Kia Magentis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Magentis. (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Magentis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Magentis | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Magentis | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 88 L |
