1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 1997 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Express | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2860 mm |
