2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Jeep Wrangler
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 484 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Jeep Wrangler has manual transmission. 1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Explorer | Wrangler |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2380 mm |
