2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Lexus ES
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Lexus ES.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lexus ES. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lexus ES. (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lexus ES. 1996 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1996 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Explorer | ES |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
