2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 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 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 555 kg more than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SLK |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2431 mm |
