2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 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 SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Fiesta | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
