2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 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 49 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 17.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 12.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
