2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Ford F-150
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford F-150. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford F-150 would be higher. At 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford F-150 (256 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Ford Explorer. (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford F-150 weights approximately 1169 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 1997 Ford F-150 (467 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford F-150 has manual transmission. 1997 Ford F-150 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1997 Ford F-150 | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | F-150 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 5406 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 467 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3050 mm |
