1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 411 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1075 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 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 574 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (126 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 1981 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 494 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2650 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 62 L |