1986 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E

To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Escort (132 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 520 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort.

Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 1999 Mercedes-Benz E
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort E
Year Released 1986 1999
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1608 cc 2148 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 132 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 1400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 88.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.5 mm 88.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.2:1 19.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1600 kg
Vehicle Length 4070 mm 4820 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2970 mm