2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1990 GMC Suburban
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1990 GMC Suburban. (209 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 GMC Suburban.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1990 GMC Suburban (407 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1990 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1990 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Explorer | Suburban |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 3300 mm |
