2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 725 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
