1989 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 19 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1020 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 686 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SL |
Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 2045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2570 mm |