1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 vs. 2011 Ford Flex
To start off, 2011 Ford Flex is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Flex weights approximately 606 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Flex, 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, 2011 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | 2011 Ford Flex | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 260 | Flex |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 2028 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5126 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2995 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
