1986 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 456 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | A |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 54 L |
