2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 615 kg more than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1997 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 2464 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2380 mm |
