2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Kia Carnival
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Kia Carnival. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Carnival would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 2008 Kia Carnival. (186 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Carnival.
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, 2008 Kia Carnival, 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 (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Carnival. (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Carnival.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2008 Kia Carnival | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Explorer | Carnival |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 186 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 246 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1990 mm |
