2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 40 more horse power than 2012 Subaru Outback. (170 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 460 kg more than 2012 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Subaru Outback is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Subaru Outback 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Subaru Outback. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2012 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Explorer | Outback |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1617 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
