1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | E | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
