2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2001 GMC Sonoma
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 GMC Sonoma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 GMC Sonoma 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 118 more horse power than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2001 GMC Sonoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 612 kg more than 2001 GMC Sonoma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 GMC Sonoma. (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 GMC Sonoma. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2001 GMC Sonoma has manual transmission. 2001 GMC Sonoma 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 | 2001 GMC Sonoma | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Explorer | Sonoma |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3130 mm |
