2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (475 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 317 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 710 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (631 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | CLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 475 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
