2006 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 2003 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,359 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Silverado (295 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer.

Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Chevrolet Silverado. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2006 Chevrolet Silverado (454 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2006 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet Silverado 2003 Ford Explorer
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Silverado Explorer
Year Released 2006 2003
Body Type Pickup SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5359 cc 3994 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 295 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 454 Nm 305 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline / Electric Hybrid Gasoline
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 6 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 5850 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1810 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 3650 mm 2840 mm