1985 Ford Tempo vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 225 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | SLK |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
