1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 290 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
