2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
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 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 410 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. 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 (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 420 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
