1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP) has 115 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 870 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 @ 3750 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2797 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 190 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |