1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 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), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 745 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 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| 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 | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 3090 mm |
