2009 Kia Sportage vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 105 kg more than 2009 Kia Sportage.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Sportage. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Sportage. 2009 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sportage | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
