2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 355 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 1996 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | C | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 48 L |
