2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Ram. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Ram would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Dodge Ram. (173 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Dodge Ram. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1104 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Dodge Ram. (305 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Dodge Ram.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1998 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Explorer | Ram |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 3906 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2790 mm |
