2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1990 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1990 Toyota MR2. (135 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 775 kg more than 1990 Toyota MR2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Toyota MR2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Toyota MR2. (196 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1990 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2164 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
