2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (216 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1251 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 GL (540 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (320 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | GL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 2459 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 3080 mm |
