1997 Ford Explorer Review: Complete Analysis
The 1997 Ford Explorer continues to establish itself as a strong competitor in the compact SUV segment with its blend of practicality, reliability, and everyday usability. This comprehensive review covers every aspect that matters to potential buyers, from performance and interior space to technology features and ownership costs.
What's New for 1997
The 1997 Ford Explorer brings several important updates that address customer feedback and maintain its competitive edge:
- 4th generation introduction
- Improved interior space
- Better handling characteristics
- Strong towing capability
Engine and Performance
Engine Options
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | 0-60 MPH | Fuel Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.0L V6 | 160 hp | 225 lb-ft | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | 9.5-10.8 seconds | 16/21/18 mpg |
| 4.0L SOHC V6 | 210 hp | 254 lb-ft | 5-speed automatic | 9.5-10.8 seconds | 15/19/17 mpg |
Driving Experience
The 1997 Explorer offers quick performance for most driving situations, delivering capable acceleration and confident all-wheel drive traction. The hybrid powertrain transforms the Explorer's character significantly, offering exceptional efficiency without compromising capability.
With a curb weight of 4,100-4,400 lbs, the Explorer strikes an impressive balance of performance and refinement. The suspension tuning provides a comfortable ride quality that absorbs road imperfections well, making it ideal for daily commuting and family transportation.
Interior Design and Comfort
Seating and Space
| Measurement | Front | Rear |
|---|---|---|
| Legroom | 42.0 inches | 40.4 inches |
| Headroom | 39.2 inches | 39.1 inches |
| Shoulder Room | 57.9 inches | 56.9 inches |
| Hip Room | 55.7 inches | 55.1 inches |
The Explorer's interior delivers practical functionality for both front and rear passengers. The 17.9 cu ft of cargo space provides excellent utility for families. Interior materials have evolved to provide and improved fit and finish that enhance the overall quality.
Technology and Features
The 1997 Explorer offers practical features designed to enhance convenience and connectivity:
- Air conditioning
- AM/FM stereo with cassette
- Cruise control
- Power windows/locks
- Privacy glass
- 4-wheel disc brakes
- Roof rack
- Third-row seating
- 4WD system
- Tow hooks (4WD)
Safety Features
The Explorer comes equipped with standard safety features:
- Driver airbag
- Passenger airbag
- ABS (optional)
- 4WD stability
Pricing and Value
The 1997 Ford Explorer offers excellent value with a starting price of $$25,000. The vehicle provides a solid balance of features, reliability, and ownership costs that typically exceeds similarly priced competitors.
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|
Pros and Cons
✅ What We Like
- Excellent cargo and passenger space
- Solid build quality
- Practical feature set
- Impressive hybrid fuel economy
- User-friendly controls and ergonomics
- Strong dealer network and service
❌ Areas for Improvement
- Some electrical issues
- Transmission concerns
- Rust issues in coastal areas
- 4WD system reliability
- Interior wear
Should You Buy the 1997 Ford Explorer?
🎯 Who Should Buy
- Families - Require space and practicality
- Value-conscious shoppers - Strong ownership experience
- Those seeking practicality - Everyday usability
- Eco-conscious buyers - Hybrid offers excellent efficiency
The 1997 Ford Explorer represents a solid option for buyers seeking space and practicality in the SUV market. Its combination of solid performance and everyday usability continues to make it a strong competitor in its segment.
💡 Key Takeaway
The 1997 Explorer provides family-friendly space with efficiency. While not the most exciting vehicle to drive, it excels at the transportation duties that most buyers actually need.
Ownership Experience
Reliability
With a decent reliability rating of 3.9/5, the 1997 Explorer provides solid ownership experience. Common issues are typically manageable with proper maintenance, with good long-term reliability for vehicles that are properly maintained.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs for the Explorer are reasonable for the segment, thanks to straightforward mechanical design. Routine service and the widespread service availability contribute to reasonable ownership costs.
Resale Value
The Explorer maintains reasonable resale value, performing well in the used market. This solid resale performance makes it a good option for buyers who plan to trade or sell their vehicle within a few years.
Comparison and Alternatives
The SUV segment offers several strong alternatives to the 1997 Ford Explorer:
Direct Competitors
- Competitor 1 - Alternative option in the segment
- Competitor 2 - Different approach to the category
- Competitor 3 - Value alternative with strong warranty
- Competitor 4 - Premium option with advanced features
Final Verdict
🏆 Overall Rating: 3.4/5 Stars
The 1997 Ford Explorer earns consideration for buyers seeking space and reliability in the SUV segment.
Best For:
- Families requiring space and practicality
- Value-conscious buyers
- Proven mechanicals
- Those prioritizing long-term ownership
Not Ideal For:
- Driving enthusiasts
- Buyers wanting the latest luxury features
- Those needing maximum space
💰 Value Assessment
The 1997 Explorer offers decent value with its combination of features, performance, and ownership costs. While individual needs vary, the Explorer consistently provides good value for its price point in the segment.
Next Steps for Buyers
Test Drive Checklist
- Test both gas and hybrid models to compare performance
- Evaluate rear seat comfort with actual passengers
- Check cargo space with your typical load
- Test the audio and climate systems with your preferences
- Experience the ride quality on your typical driving routes
Negotiation Tips
- Get quotes from multiple dealers for comparison
- Focus on dealer invoice pricing
- Bundle service contracts for peace of mind
- Don't overlook the value of factory incentives
Ready to Buy the 1997 Ford Explorer?
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