1987 Ford Tempo vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 474 more horse power than 1987 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 516 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 SLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 479 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Tempo | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | SLS |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 563 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 649 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1938 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2680 mm |
