2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback 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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 460 kg more than 2004 Subaru Outback. 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 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Subaru Outback. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2004 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Explorer | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
