2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 269 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Lexus IS 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 2011 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Lexus IS. (251 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Explorer | IS |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 65 L |
