1997 Ford Galaxy vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1997 Ford Galaxy is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1997 Ford Galaxy. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Galaxy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 54 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Galaxy, 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Galaxy. (172 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Galaxy. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Galaxy has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Galaxy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Galaxy | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Galaxy | 420 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1679 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3080 mm |
