1981 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 23 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 430 more horse power than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1240 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 637 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Fiesta. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | CLS |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 957 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 469 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 701 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2650 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 92 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 80 L |