2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2012 Toyota RAV4 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 Toyota RAV4 (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 392 kg more than 2012 Toyota RAV4.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota RAV4. (233 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota RAV4. 2012 Toyota RAV4 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. 2012 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2012 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1558 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1854 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2659 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
