1997 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 220 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Escort | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Escort | SLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 115 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |