2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 714 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 495 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Explorer | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4014 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 335 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |