1994 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1994 Ford Escort. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Escort.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Escort. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Escort | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SL |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2560 mm |
