2008 Nissan Micra vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Micra. (88 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1077 kg more than 2008 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Micra. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Micra. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Micra has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Micra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Micra | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Nissan | Ford |
| Model | Micra | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 70 L |
