1991 Ford Orion vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Orion would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1991 Ford Orion. (89 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 415 kg more than 1991 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Ford Orion, 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Orion. (130 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Orion. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Ford Orion has manual transmission. 1991 Ford Orion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Orion | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Orion | SL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
