1968 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL

To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1620 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 361 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (98 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1968 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1968 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Ford Escort 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort GL
Year Released 1968 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1298 cc 4700 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 56 HP 335 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 98 Nm 459 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 805 kg 2425 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 5098 mm
Vehicle Width 1580 mm 1989 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1839 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3076 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 41 L 100 L