2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 503 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 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 585 kg more than 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 695 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2010 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| 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 | 1950 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
