1997 Ford Explorer Specs, Features & Options
Here's everything you need to know about each trim in the 1997 Ford Explorer lineup. Compare pricing, specs, key features and more.
Save 1 of 2 ![]() Explorer Sport Utility 2D | Save 2 of 2 ![]() Explorer Sport Utility 4D | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fair Market Price | $2,048 | $2,061 | ||
| Fuel Economy | City 14/Hwy 18/Comb 16 MPG | City 13/Hwy 17/Comb 15 MPG | ||
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | ||
| Horsepower | 205 @ 5000 RPM | 160 @ 4200 RPM | ||
| Seating | 4 | 6 | ||
| Dimensions | 178.6" L x 70.2" W x 66.9" H | 188.5" L x 70.2" W x 66.8" H | ||
| Engine | V6, SOHC, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | ||
| Configurations | V | V | ||
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs | 3,500 lbs |
| Child Seat Anchors | Not available | Not available | ||
| Child Door Locks | Not available | Standard |
| Cruise Control | Optional | Optional | ||
| Navigation System | Optional | Optional |
| Cruise Control | Optional | Optional |
| Torque | 250 @ 5000 RPM | 225 @ 4200 RPM |
| Leather Seats | Optional | Optional | ||
| Dual Power Front Seats | Optional | Optional | ||
| Power Driver's Seat | Optional | Optional |
| Power Windows | Optional | Optional | ||
| Tilt Steering Wheel | Optional | Optional |
| Alloy Wheels | Optional | Optional | ||
| Privacy Glass | Optional | Optional | ||
| Roof Rails | Optional | Optional |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | ||
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Curb Weight | 3707 pounds | 3939 pounds | ||
| Fuel Capacity | 17.5 gallons | 21 gallons | ||
| Front Head Room | 39.8 inches | 39.8 inches | ||
| Front Leg Room | 42.4 inches | 42.4 inches | ||
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 6.7 inches | 6.7 inches | ||
| Overall Length | 178.6 inches | 188.5 inches | ||
| Payload Capacity | 750 pounds | 900 pounds | ||
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.7 inches | 57.1 inches | ||
| Turning Diameter | 34.6 feet | 37.3 feet | ||
| Wheel Base | 101.7 inches | 111.5 inches | ||
| Width with mirrors | 70.2 inches | 70.2 inches |
FAQs
Is the Ford Explorer a 4 or 6 cylinder?
All trim levels of the 1997 Explorer feature a 6 cylinder engine.
Does the 1997 Ford Explorer have a turbo?
No, the 1997 Explorer does not have any trim packages that offer a turbo engine at this time.
What features does a 1997 Explorer have?
1997 Ford Explorer features include AM/FM Radio, Driver Airbag, and Passenger Airbag.
How much horsepower does a 1997 Explorer have?
The 1997 Explorer ranges in power from the Sport Utility 4D with 160 horsepower to the Sport Utility 2D with 205 horsepower.
Is the Ford Explorer underpowered?
It depends on your definition of underpowered. The 1997 Explorer ranges in power from the Sport Utility 4D with 160 horsepower to the Sport Utility 2D with 205 horsepower.
Is the Ford Explorer fuel efficient?
The 1997 Explorer comes in a variety of trim levels with different levels of fuel efficiency. On the low end is the Sport Utility 4D which gets 15 MPG, with 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway.

