2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Ford Transit Connect
To start off, 2012 Ford Transit Connect 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 2012 Ford Transit Connect. (136 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Transit Connect.
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 Transit Connect, 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 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Transit Connect. (173 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Transit Connect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2012 Ford Transit Connect | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Transit Connect |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Panel Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1796 mm |
