2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 9 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 145 kg more than 2012 Alfa Romeo 159.
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, 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2012 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | Ford | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Explorer | 159 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
