1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP) has 418 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1135 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 589 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 493 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3090 mm |
