1990 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 471 more horse power than 1990 Ford Fiesta. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1990 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 818 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Fiesta. (183 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 1990 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 133 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 80 L |