1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 655 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo. 1988 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Ford Tempo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | SL | Tempo |
Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2797 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2540 mm |