2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (517 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 2011 Ford Explorer. (290 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | C | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 517 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
