1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 410 kg more than 2003 Nissan 350Z.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2003 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
