2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 18 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1921 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
