1989 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (192 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (271 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 91.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
