2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (267 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Ford Explorer. (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 508 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Explorer | Lancer |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 74 L |
