2009 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rio. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 746 kg more than 2009 Kia Rio. 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 Rio, 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 (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rio. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rio | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1343 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1144 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
