2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 464 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Explorer | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 335 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |