2001 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 872 kg more than 2001 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 976 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
