2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Lexus GS
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS 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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (303 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 210 kg more than 2009 Lexus GS.
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 Lexus GS (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Explorer | GS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 303 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
