1981 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 22 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (603 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 533 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1201 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 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 879 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 2003 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | CL |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 603 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 2155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2860 mm |