2009 Ford F-450 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford F-450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford F-450 would be higher. At 6,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford F-450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford F-450 (326 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2012 Ford Explorer. (290 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford F-450 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Explorer.

Because 2009 Ford F-450 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 F-450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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 F-450 (814 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 469 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford F-450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford F-450 has manual transmission. 2009 Ford F-450 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford F-450 2012 Ford Explorer
Make Ford Ford
Model F-450 Explorer
Year Released 2009 2012
Body Type Pickup SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6400 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 326 HP 290 HP
Engine RPM 3000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 814 Nm 345 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 6670 mm 5006 mm
Vehicle Width 2430 mm 2004 mm
Vehicle Height 2030 mm 1788 mm
Wheelbase Size 4390 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 144 L 70 L