1989 Ford Capri vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Capri would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1989 Ford Capri. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 783 kg more than 1989 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Capri, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Capri. (183 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Capri. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Capri has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Capri will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Capri | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Capri | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 6.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1092 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
