1997 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (153 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1997 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. 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 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Laurel. (190 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Laurel | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Nissan | Ford |
| Model | Laurel | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
