2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Highlander (230 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 292 kg more than 2004 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2004 Toyota Highlander 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, 2004 Toyota Highlander 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) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Highlander. (329 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2004 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 73 L |
