1984 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1984 Ford Fiesta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (96 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 760 kg more than 1984 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2870 mm |
