1983 Ford Orion vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Orion would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 1983 Ford Orion. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1046 kg more than 1983 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Orion, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 600 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Orion. (100 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Orion | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Orion | SL |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
