1986 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 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), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 470 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 2005 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 548 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SL |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
