2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2006 Subaru Forester is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Subaru Forester (163 HP) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 440 kg more than 2006 Subaru Forester.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Subaru Forester. (226 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Subaru Forester. 2006 Subaru Forester 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. 2006 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2006 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Explorer | Forester |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2530 mm |
