2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 274 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | CLK | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3070 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |
