2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 290 kg more than 2002 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 389 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
