2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (138 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 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. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2404 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |
