2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Lexus ES
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus ES would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus ES (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 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 380 kg more than 2003 Lexus ES.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 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, 2003 Lexus ES (325 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 2003 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. 2003 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2003 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Explorer | ES |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3314 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3600 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 | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
