1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 765 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | 230 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 72 L |
