2004 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 275 kg more than 1999 Acura RL.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Acura RL. 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 1999 Acura RL. (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Acura RL. 1999 Acura RL 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. 1999 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 1999 Acura RL | |
| Make | Ford | Acura |
| Model | Explorer | RL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 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 | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2920 mm |
