1982 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 315 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SLK |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2440 mm |
