2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 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. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80.3 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 | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
