2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 6 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (181 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 891 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (241 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 1796 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
