2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 GMC Safari

To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,291 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1999 GMC Safari. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 GMC Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 GMC Safari weights approximately 989 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.

Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 GMC Safari. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 GMC Safari. (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 GMC Safari.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford Explorer 1999 GMC Safari
Make Ford GMC
Model Explorer Safari
Year Released 2009 1999
Body Type SUV Van
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4007 cc 4291 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 210 HP 187 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 338 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 8 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 966 kg 1955 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4830 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1980 mm
Vehicle Height 1830 mm 1910 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2830 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 98 L