2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler 300. (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 194 kg more than 2009 Chrysler 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chrysler 300 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 2009 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler 300. (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 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 | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
