2006 Ford E-350 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Ford E-350 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1440 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-350, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford E-350 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-350 | E |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2856 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2760 mm |
