2001 Ford Mondeo vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Mondeo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Mondeo would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 2001 Ford Mondeo. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Mondeo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 429 kg more than 2001 Ford Mondeo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Mondeo. (178 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Mondeo. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Mondeo has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Mondeo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Mondeo | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mondeo | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1905 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 80 L |
