2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata 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 69 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 453 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, 2003 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Hyundai Sonata has manual transmission. 2003 Hyundai Sonata 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 | 2003 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Explorer | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 4.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |
