2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 512 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | E |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 80 L |
