2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. (195 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 184 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 82 L |
