2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 9 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 357 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Explorer weights approximately 73 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm) has 525 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 80 L |
