1978 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 257 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 930 kg more than 1978 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1978 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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