1986 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is newer by 15 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 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 685 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (185 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | Smart |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 88 L |
