1982 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 22 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 441 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | A |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1991 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 | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
