2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 102 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
