1982 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 596 kg more than 1982 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 C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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 C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | C |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 69 L |
