2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (94 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 515 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (271 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
