1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 28 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), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 427 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1280 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 706 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (94 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SL |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2570 mm |
