2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2011 Subaru Forester 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP) has 40 more horse power than 2011 Subaru Forester. (170 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2011 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 442 kg more than 2011 Subaru Forester. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Subaru Forester. (236 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Subaru Forester. 2011 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2011 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Explorer | Forester |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1497 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4559 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1699 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2616 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 64 L |
