1985 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 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 2,685 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (167 HP) has 118 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1385 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | ML |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
