2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback is newer by 5 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 Subaru Outback. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 564 kg more than 2008 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 (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Subaru Outback. (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Explorer | Outback |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2680 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 | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 64 L |
