1983 Ford Tempo vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 566 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 660 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 SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren. 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 SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 668 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Tempo | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 617 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
