1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 400 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Tempo | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2920 mm |
