2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 7 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 235 kg more than 2011 Lexus IS.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Lexus IS. 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, 2011 Lexus IS (502 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 2011 Lexus IS 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. 2011 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Explorer | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 416 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 502 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4661 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2728 mm |
