2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 75 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 88 L |
