2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 622 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 3197 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 224 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 128 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 1830 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |