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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 880 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 3994 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
