1981 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 27 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (470 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 966 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 579 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | CLS |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 470 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1920 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2860 mm |