2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1999 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | C |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
