2008 Acura TL vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Acura TL is newer by 5 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura TL (258 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura TL 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 2008 Acura TL. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Acura TL. (316 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Acura TL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura TL | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | TL | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 258 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
