2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Infiniti M

To start off, 2012 Infiniti M 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 Infiniti M (330 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 204 kg more than 2012 Infiniti M.

Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Infiniti M. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 Infiniti M (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2012 Infiniti M 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. 2012 Infiniti M will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Explorer 2012 Infiniti M
Make Ford Infiniti
Model Explorer M
Year Released 2003 2012
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3994 cc 3700 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 158 HP 330 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 305 Nm 366 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 5200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1950 kg 1746 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4945 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1844 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1501 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2901 mm