2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee would be higher. At 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee (247 HP @ 4050 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee.
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, 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee (468 Nm @ 3050 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Grand Cherokee |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 5899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4050 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 468 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3050 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 | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
