2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Explorer 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 49 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Matrix.
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, 2011 Toyota Matrix, 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Explorer | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 50 L |
