1988 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 15 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1988 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2720 mm |
