2009 Kia Rondo vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2009 Kia Rondo. (198 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Rondo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 605 kg more than 2009 Kia Rondo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (450 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rondo. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rondo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rondo | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Rondo | 500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 80 L |
