1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1262 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 692 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
