1982 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 31 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (511 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 920 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS (700 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 579 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | CLS |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2075 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1406 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2874 mm |
