2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (136 HP @ 2600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 347 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1735 kg |
