2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 804 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (475 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SLK | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 360 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
