2003 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP) has 202 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 600 kg more than 2003 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 269 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |
