1991 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 21 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1991 Ford Escort. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 795 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (600 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 454 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Escort. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Escort | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | CLS |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2875 mm |
