1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 494 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 85 L |
