2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1102 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
