2009 Ford Escape vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2009 Ford Escape. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Escape.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Escape. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Escape. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Escape has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Escape will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
