2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SLK | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
