1984 Ford Orion vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 1984 Ford Orion is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Orion, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Orion. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Orion | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Orion | 350 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
