2012 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 820 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. 2013 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | A | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
