1980 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 860 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 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SL |
Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 96 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |