2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 67 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 475 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (325 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 14.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
