1987 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (167 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 955 kg more than 1987 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | E |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 765 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2860 mm |
