2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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 SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 80 L |
