1983 Ford Escort vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 510 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escort | S |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2950 mm |
