1989 Ford Tempo vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1989 Ford Tempo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 240 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | 300 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
