1984 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 380 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SLK |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
