2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 117 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (93 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1612 kg more than 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara has manual transmission. 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 2003 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Explorer | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 30 L |
