1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 20 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 408 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1914 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 493 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | CL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
