1996 Ford Aerostar vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Ford Aerostar. (133 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 485 kg more than 1996 Ford Aerostar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Aerostar 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 1996 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 1996 Ford Aerostar (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Aerostar | 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Aerostar | V |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 3010 mm |
