2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 204 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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 CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Explorer | CLS |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4014 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 288 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 335 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 12.2:1 |
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 | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |