1985 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 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 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 900 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
