2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | CLK | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
