2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 7 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (306 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 440 kg more than 2009 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan 350Z 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 | 2009 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 76 L |
