2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 GMC Safari
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,292 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 GMC Safari. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 GMC Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 GMC Safari weights approximately 845 kg more than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 GMC Safari. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 GMC Safari. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 GMC Safari.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2003 GMC Safari | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Explorer | Safari |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 4292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 98 L |
