2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2006 Ford Explorer. (292 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Explorer.
Because 2006 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Explorer. (407 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
