1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 312 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | 300 | Explorer |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4519 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 358 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2004 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 70 L |