1996 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 12 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP) has 261 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1350 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1850 mm |
