2004 Ford Fiesta vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Ford Fiesta is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Ford Fiesta. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 452 kg more than 2004 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Fiesta. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Fiesta | 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1108 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2950 mm |
