2003 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 6 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), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP) has 221 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 615 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | CLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| 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 | 288 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
