1996 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 70 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A (180 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
