1971 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 305 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Escort 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 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2720 mm |
