2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (343 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | E |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 343 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
