2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
