2002 Ford Escape vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Ford Escape is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Ford Escape. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Escape weights approximately 6 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2002 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Escape will offer significantly more control. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Escape. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Escape | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 79 L |
