1990 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Escort would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 477 more horse power than 1990 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1165 kg more than 1990 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 689 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Escort. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 Ford Escort 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort S
Year Released 1990 2012
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1753 cc 5500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 59 HP 536 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 799 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1065 kg 2230 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 5250 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1872 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1473 mm