2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Honda Element
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer 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 83 more horse power than 2004 Honda Element. (153 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Honda Element. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 545 kg more than 2004 Honda Element. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Honda Element. 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) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Honda Element. (220 Nm). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2004 Honda Element | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Explorer | Element |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 99 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1537 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2690 mm |
