1998 Ford Puma vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Puma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Puma would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1998 Ford Puma. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Puma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 929 kg more than 1998 Ford Puma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer 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 2002 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Puma, 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Puma. (125 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Puma. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Puma has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Puma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Puma | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Puma | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 85 L |
