1983 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 26 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 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 840 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 660 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Ford Tempo | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Tempo | SL |
Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2307 cc | 5512 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2570 mm |