2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (474 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 72 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 474 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1878 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
