2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,972 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (242 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 470 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 500 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 4972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
