2006 Ford Escape vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2006 Ford Escape is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,305 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Escape (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Escape weights approximately 1481 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Escape, 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, 2006 Ford Escape (206 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Escape | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | 230 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 2305 cc |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2856 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 65 L |
