1980 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1040 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 404 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Ford Escort | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SL |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |