1989 Ford Tempo vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 405 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | CLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 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 | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
