1996 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 13 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1315 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 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1930 mm |
