2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 117 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (311 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
