2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (242 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 184 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
