1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 300 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Let's talk about torque, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 420 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2850 mm |
