1999 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Escort would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 1999 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 831 kg more than 1999 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 522 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Escort. (178 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | SL |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2570 mm |
