1991 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1991 Ford Escort. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 753 kg more than 1991 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, 1991 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 (460 Nm) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Escort. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
