1972 Ford GT 40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1335 kg more than 1972 Ford GT 40.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford GT 40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Ford GT 40. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1972 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford GT 40 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT 40 | R |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 980 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 125 L | 80 L |
