1988 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 17 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 404 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 925 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 3090 mm |
