1994 Ford Tempo vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (182 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1994 Ford Tempo. (134 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 240 kg more than 1994 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Tempo. (203 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Tempo. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1994 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1994 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Tempo | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Tempo | SLK |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2431 mm |
