1998 Ford Escort vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1998 Ford Escort is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (5 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 (94 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1998 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | 250 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
