1985 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 26 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL (459 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2011 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | GL |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3076 mm |
