2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 103 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 183 kg more than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | R | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2250 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
