1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 425 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | C |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 68.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
