1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 461 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1195 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 746 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SL |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 5512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 510 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 755 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
