1984 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1195 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Fiesta. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Ford Fiesta 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Fiesta CL
Year Released 1984 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1296 cc 5461 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 68 HP 383 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 103 Nm 531 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 800 kg 1995 kg
Vehicle Length 3650 mm 5070 mm
Vehicle Width 1590 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2960 mm