2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Maxima is newer by 10 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 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 333 kg more than 2012 Nissan Maxima.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan Maxima. 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, 2012 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2012 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
