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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (116 HP @ 5200 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 550 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 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (185 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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:
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 | 4015 cc | 2464 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2380 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 57 L |