2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 174 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 450 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 4520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| 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 | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 95 L |
