2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 722 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (186 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1968 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
