1986 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 19 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 2,683 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 665 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort CLK
Year Released 1986 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2683 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 89.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 68.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 151 km/hour 236 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1575 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 62 L