1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 20 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 575 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SLK |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1290 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 | 70 L |
