1996 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (114 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1135 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Escort | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
Torque | 114 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 2215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |