1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1200 kg more than 1981 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Fiesta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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 (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1981 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:
| 1981 Ford Fiesta | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 88 L |
