1991 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 388 more horse power than 1991 Ford Escort. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 975 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 665 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Escort. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Escort. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1991 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1991 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Escort | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
