1996 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 349 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 655 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 585 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Escort | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 4600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 423 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 115 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4612 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2099 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1315 mm |