2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. (131 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 175 kg more than 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190. 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 (198 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1988 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | 190 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
