1983 Ford Tempo vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 25 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (475 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 130 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (631 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 519 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Tempo | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | CLK |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 475 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
