1979 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 940 kg more than 1979 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 445 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1979 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1979 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | C |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 62 L |
