1987 Ford Escort vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 1987 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1987 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Escort.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Escort | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
