1988 Ford Tempo vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 660 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | SL |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.6 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
