1989 Ford Tempo vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 315 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 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
