2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Kia Forte

To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Explorer 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 54 more horse power than 2012 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 789 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte. 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, 2012 Kia Forte, 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 @ 3700 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Explorer 2012 Kia Forte
Make Ford Kia
Model Explorer Forte
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4013 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 210 HP 156 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 195 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2077 kg 1288 kg
Vehicle Length 5350 mm 4341 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1775 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1461 mm
Wheelbase Size 3320 mm 2649 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 11.8 L/100km 6.5 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 16.8 L/100km 9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 52 L


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]