2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 693 kg more than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
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, 2008 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 (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (205 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2008 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:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.5 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1127 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.9 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
