2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 6 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 1 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 395 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS. 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 2008 Lexus IS. 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2008 Lexus IS 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. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Explorer | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
