2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (231 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 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 314 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 (327 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 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. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 420 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| 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 | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 3080 mm |
