1980 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP) has 253 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort, 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 CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 376 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | CL |
Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1116 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 302 HP |
Torque | 84 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 142 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1865 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 99 L |