2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Toyota Prius

To start off, 2012 Toyota Prius 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 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 24 more horse power than 2012 Toyota Prius. (134 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 514 kg more than 2012 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 2012 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Toyota Prius. (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Toyota Prius.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Ford Explorer 2012 Toyota Prius
Make Ford Toyota
Model Explorer Prius
Year Released 2004 2012
Body Type SUV Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3996 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 158 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 306 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Manual CVT
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1950 kg 1436 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4481 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1745 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1491 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2700 mm