1983 Ford Tempo vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL

To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 553 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 678 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Tempo, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 888 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Ford Tempo 2006 Mercedes-Benz CL
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Tempo CL
Year Released 1983 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 5980 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 12 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 51 HP 604 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 112 Nm 1000 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 1788 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 5000 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2890 mm