1986 Ford Fiesta vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1986 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (87 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1986 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Fiesta | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | 300 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 87 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2800 mm |
