2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 131 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Dodge Ram. 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 (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram. 1998 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Explorer | Ram |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 3905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2790 mm |
