2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 714 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | A | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |
