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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee (185 HP) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP) 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 302 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, both vehicles can yield 305 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 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 | 3963 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 185 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 305 Nm |
| 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 | 1648 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
