2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 631 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | S | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2540 mm |
