2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero
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 Pajero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. (175 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 868 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 (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero has manual transmission. 2003 Mitsubishi Pajero 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 Pajero | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Explorer | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 2971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
