1983 Ford Escort vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 5,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 850 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 422 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2950 mm |
