2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (384 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 172 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Explorer | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4605 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 236 HP | 384 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 382 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 98 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.5 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 | 1910 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 |