1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 427 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1330 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 690 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2720 mm |
