2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (254 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (620 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3165 mm |
