1999 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1014 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Fiesta. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 7.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 976 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 90 L |
