2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2009 Subaru Forester 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, 2009 Subaru Forester (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 317 kg more than 2009 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 @ 2750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Forester. (229 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Forester. 2009 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. 2009 Subaru Forester will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Explorer | Forester |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| 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 | 1633 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
