1986 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 88 L |
