2003 Ford Escape vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Ford Escape is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Escape (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2003 Ford Escape.
Because 2003 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Escape (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Escape | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 65 L |
