2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2011 Nissan Maxima is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 319 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Nissan Maxima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm). This means 2011 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2011 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
