2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 1 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 144 kg more than 2002 Ford Explorer. 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 2003 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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. 2003 Chevrolet SSR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | SSR | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 4947 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 390 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
