2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (170 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 517 kg more than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, 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 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. (271 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Oldsmobile Alero.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Explorer | Alero |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2720 mm |
