2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2011 Nissan Frontier is newer by 8 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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer.
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, 2011 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Frontier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2011 Nissan Frontier 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. 2011 Nissan Frontier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 2011 Nissan Frontier | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Explorer | Frontier |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3994 cc | 3953 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3200 mm |