2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is newer by 8 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. (188 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter weights approximately 864 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2011 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | Sprinter |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 2803 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 6939 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2024 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 2731 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 4326 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 100 L |
