1982 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 925 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2970 mm |
