2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 417 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Explorer | CLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |