2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2009 GMC Sierra is newer by 6 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Sierra (353 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Sierra weights approximately 709 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer. 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, 2009 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Explorer | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 353 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 506 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 2659 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3380 mm |
