1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 816 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SLK | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
