1980 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 565 more horse power than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1235 kg more than 1980 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, 1980 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 (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 937 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1980 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:
1980 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 957 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 80 L |