1986 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 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 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 130 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | A |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 54 L |
