1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK

To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 564 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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 SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1977 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1977 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 Ford Fiesta 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Fiesta SLK
Year Released 1977 1999
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1117 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 52 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 80 Nm 234 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 726 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 3570 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 34 L 70 L