2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 GMC Safari
To start off, 2004 GMC Safari is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer 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 24 more horse power than 2004 GMC Safari. (188 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 GMC Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 65 kg more than 2004 GMC Safari. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 GMC Safari. 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 (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 GMC Safari. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 GMC Safari. 2004 GMC Safari 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. 2004 GMC Safari will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2004 GMC Safari | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Explorer | Safari |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
