2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 589 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2810 mm |
