1981 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 336 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SLK |
Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2410 mm |