2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra is newer by 8 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 71 kg more than 2012 Nissan Xterra.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Nissan Xterra. 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, 2012 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer. 2012 Nissan Xterra 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. 2012 Nissan Xterra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2012 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1879 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4539 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1902 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
