2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 304 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | C | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 361 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |
