1998 Ford Explorer vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Ford Explorer. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 540 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
