2009 Ford Escape vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Ford Escape. (171 HP @ 6550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 868 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Escape (303 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2009 Ford Escape has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | S |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 303 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
