2003 Ford F-250 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford F-250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford F-250 would be higher. At 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford F-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford F-250 (296 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2012 Ford Explorer. (290 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford F-250 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford F-250 weights approximately 343 kg more than 2012 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford F-250 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Ford F-250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 F-250 (495 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford F-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford F-250 has manual transmission. 2003 Ford F-250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford F-250 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | F-250 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 495 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2410 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5760 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 144 L | 70 L |
