2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Ford Model U
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Model U. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Model U would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Ford Model U. (149 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Model U.
Because 2003 Ford Model U is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Model U 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Model U. (213 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Model U.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 2003 Ford Model U | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Model U |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1660 mm |
