1997 Ford F-150 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 Ford F-150. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-150 would be higher. At 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Ford F-150. (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford F-150.
Because 1997 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 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, 1997 Ford F-150 (467 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Explorer. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford F-150 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | F-150 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 467 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2860 mm |
