1984 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 465 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 456 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 540 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Ford Escort 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort S
Year Released 1984 2009
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1608 cc 6208 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 53 HP 518 HP
Engine RPM 4700 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 91 Nm 631 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5200 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 8.8:1
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 1326 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 5210 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 3170 mm