1996 Ford Escort vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 11 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 5,460 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | CLS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 5460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
