2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 340 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
