2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 641 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Toyota Highlander. 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (325 Nm). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.9 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 73 L |
