1999 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Ford Fiesta is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 838 kg more than 1999 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Fiesta. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 922 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |