2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 16 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 510 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 720 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 85 L |
