2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2009 Ford Explorer. (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Explorer.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (701 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Explorer | CLS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 701 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1880 mm |
