1989 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
