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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 349 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 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 625 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 (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 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 | 3994 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 507 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |