2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (168 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 550 kg more than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero 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. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Explorer | Alero |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
