2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Kia Retona
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Retona 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 120 more horse power than 2003 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 207 kg more than 2003 Kia Retona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Retona 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 (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Retona. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Kia Retona has manual transmission. 2003 Kia Retona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2003 Kia Retona | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Explorer | Retona |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2370 mm |
