2003 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 492 kg more than 2003 Ford Taurus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Taurus. (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Taurus | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 4013 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 2077 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 85 L |
