2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius 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 48 more horse power than 2009 Toyota Prius. (110 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 266 kg more than 2009 Toyota Prius. 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 Toyota Prius. 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 195 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Prius. 2009 Toyota Prius 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 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | Prius |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
