2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 11 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 788 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2009 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:
2009 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | SL |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.1:1 |
Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |