2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 2012 Ford Explorer. (290 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 702 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 655 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | SL | Explorer |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5980 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 661 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 1000 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 5006 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1788 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |