1996 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP) has 228 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 355 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 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Escort | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 302 HP |
Torque | 114 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |