2004 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 374 more horse power than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (120 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 799 kg more than 2012 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | S | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 494 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1151 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
