2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 18 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (231 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 327 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 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, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420. (327 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 420 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 3080 mm |
