1986 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 23 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 (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (518 HP) has 440 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (78 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 401 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 503 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (127 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | CL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 518 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
