1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 25 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 453 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1280 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 636 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | CL |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 88 L |
