2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 272 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (350 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 S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
