1989 Ford Tempo vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1989 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Tempo, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Tempo | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Tempo | 280 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2800 mm |