2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser
To start off, 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser 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 Toyota FJ Cruiser (239 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 575 kg more than 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser.
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 Toyota FJ Cruiser (377 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser 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 Toyota FJ Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Toyota FJ Cruiser | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | FJ Cruiser |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3700 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
