1988 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP) has 200 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1988 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1988 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | CLK |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 275 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
