1990 Fiat Tempra vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Fiat Tempra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Fiat Tempra would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 407 more horse power than 1990 Fiat Tempra. (86 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Fiat Tempra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 852 kg more than 1990 Fiat Tempra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Fiat Tempra, 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 670 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Fiat Tempra. (130 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Fiat Tempra. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Fiat Tempra has manual transmission. 1990 Fiat Tempra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Fiat Tempra | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempra | SL |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2570 mm |
