2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Kia Soul
To start off, 2012 Kia Soul 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Kia Soul. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Soul. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 764 kg more than 2012 Kia Soul. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Soul. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Soul. (167 Nm @ 4850 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Soul. 2012 Kia Soul 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 Kia Soul will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2012 Kia Soul | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Explorer | Soul |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1186 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
