1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 175 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 649 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 280 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2860 mm |
