2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2005 Nissan 350Z is newer by 2 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 470 kg more than 2005 Nissan 350Z.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (354 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2005 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1469 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
