1988 Ford Fairlane vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (138 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 139 kg more than 1988 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fairlane. (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Fairlane | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fairlane | SL |
Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4089 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |