1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1040 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 88 L |
