1986 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 335 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1575 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 447 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | GL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 100 L |
