1985 Ford Tempo vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (156 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2760 mm |
