1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (360 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 689 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (475 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2013 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 2209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
