2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta is newer by 3 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 4,007 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (120 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 185 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, 2012 Ford Fiesta, 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 (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2012 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2012 Ford Fiesta 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 | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4007 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1151 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
