1980 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 25 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), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1245 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 83 L |
