1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 349 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 50 kg more than 1997 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 519 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
