2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP) has 436 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1051 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 719 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 510 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 994 kg | 2045 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 80 L |
