2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 528 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. 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 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 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. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 260 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 260 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
