2004 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2011 Ford Explorer. (290 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | CL | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 99 L | 70 L |
