1996 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1045 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 R 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
