1989 Ford Escort vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | 230 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 72 L |
