2012 Kia Sorento vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Kia Sorento is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Kia Sorento. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Sorento. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 16 kg more than 2012 Kia Sorento. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sorento, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Sorento. (229 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Sorento.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Kia Sorento | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Sorento | SL |
Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2400 cc | 2797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1744 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4671 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1885 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1709 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |