1988 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | C |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
