1986 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 970 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 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort S
Year Released 1986 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 3498 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 92.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 10.7:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Top Speed 151 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1880 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 5080 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 3040 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 90 L