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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 775 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 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 (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 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 | 1597 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1735 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 | 62 L |
