2011 Kia Sportage vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2011 Kia Sportage is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Sportage (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (221 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 228 kg more than 2011 Kia Sportage.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Sportage. (358 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Sportage.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Sportage | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sportage | CLK |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1502 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1854 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1636 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
