2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 304 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
