1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 955 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | E |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 158 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2860 mm |
