2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Mercury Monterey
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercury Monterey. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercury Monterey would be higher. At 5,769 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercury Monterey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercury Monterey (164 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercury Monterey should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 20 kg more than 1972 Mercury Monterey.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercury Monterey. 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, 1972 Mercury Monterey (383 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1972 Mercury Monterey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 1972 Mercury Monterey has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercury Monterey will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1972 Mercury Monterey | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Explorer | Monterey |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 5769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 383 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3160 mm |
