2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL (231 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 320 kg more than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1992 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
