2006 Ford Escape vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Ford Escape is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2006 Ford Escape. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Escape weights approximately 175 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Escape. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Escape | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2259 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
