2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,786 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 90 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 S (530 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 5786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| 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 | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3090 mm |
