1982 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 29 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1501 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1982 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1982 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | GL |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3076 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 100 L |
