1996 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (142 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 560 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 70 L |
