1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 21 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1680 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | E |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.6 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2860 mm |
