1990 Ford Tempo vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1990 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 140 kg more than 1990 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Tempo | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
