1985 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP) has 569 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 978 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (781 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 697 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 618 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 781 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
