1989 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 730 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 242 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |