1996 Ford Escort vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,837 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP) has 127 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 505 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 1984 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 1984 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1984 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 | 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 3837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
