2003 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru Outback would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2003 Subaru Outback. (165 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 622 kg more than 2003 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Outback 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 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru Outback. (225 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru Outback | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Subaru | Ford |
| Model | Outback | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2457 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.6 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
