1986 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 670 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SLK |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
