2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Oldsmobile Alero 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 (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. (168 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Oldsmobile Alero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 428 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1998 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1998 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Explorer | Alero |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 53 L |
