1998 Ford Escort vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 1998 Ford Escort is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 350 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1990 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Escort 1990 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Escort S
Year Released 1998 1990
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1391 cc 2599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 74 HP 164 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 114 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1520 kg
Vehicle Length 4140 mm 5030 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1440 mm