2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2006 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 850 kg more than 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer, 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 500 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 4971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
