1986 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 22 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 6,208 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (630 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | CLS |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 6208 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
