2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra, 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
