2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Rover 400
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Rover 400 would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Rover 400. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Rover 400.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Rover 400. 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 (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Rover 400. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Rover 400 has manual transmission. 1998 Rover 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1998 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Explorer | 400 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
