2008 Ford Fusion vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Fusion is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fusion. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fusion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 905 kg more than 2008 Ford Fusion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Fusion. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fusion. (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fusion. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Fusion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fusion | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fusion | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1177 kg | 2082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2840 mm |
