2008 Buick LaCrosse vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Buick LaCrosse 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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 Buick LaCrosse.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Buick LaCrosse. 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, both vehicles can yield 305 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2008 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Buick LaCrosse | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | LaCrosse | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2840 mm |
