1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
