1987 Ford Tempo vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1987 Ford Tempo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. Both 1987 Ford Tempo and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 are equipped with a 2,307 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1987 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 251 kg more than 1987 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Tempo | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | 230 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2800 mm |
