2008 Dodge Ram vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Ford Explorer. (292 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 779 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Ram | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 4606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 85 L |
