1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 500 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 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | CLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
