2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 10 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 237 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK has manual transmission. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | GLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | electric |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4536 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2016 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1669 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2755 mm |
