1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 710 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK (271 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 2000 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SLK |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
