2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 37 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 448 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
