2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier is newer by 5 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Frontier. (152 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Frontier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 420 kg more than 2009 Nissan Frontier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Nissan Frontier. 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Frontier. (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Frontier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Frontier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3200 mm |
