Used 1997 Ford Explorer for Sale near Bloomington, IN
1 result
Overview
New options on the 1997 Ford Explorer offered buyers of America's most popular SUV more choices under the hood. In addition to the 4.9 liter, 210-horsepower V-8 engine introduced in 1996, the '97 Explorer also came off the line with an optional single overhead cam 4.0 liter V-6 which delivered 205 horsepower.
Agility was also a selling point for the '97 Ford Explorer: real all-wheel drive was available for the first time on the Eddie Bauer and Limited trims. In addition to those higher-end trim selections, the 1997 Explorer was offered in Sport, XL, and XLT trims, with a choice of two-door and four-door body styles.
Fuel efficiency wasn't bad by sport-utility vehicle standards: 14 to 18 mpg city, 17 to 23 mpg highway, depending on model, engine, and bodystyle, were the EPA's estimates. The Ford Explorer continued to outsell other vehicles in its class because of its affordability, durability, and superior cargo capacity.
Some drivers love this workhorse for toting the family around; others like to take the four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive versions on off-road adventures. Either way, the 1997 Ford Explorer has lasting appeal.
Relevant articles
The Best Used SUVs of 2026
Finding the right used SUV can be daunting, which is why we've gathered a comprehensive list featuring well-rounded, family-friendly options in several popular categories.
The Best Cars for Tall People in 2026
Searching for vehicles best suited for tall people? Keep reading to find out which cars, trucks, and SUVs best accommodate those with a higher stature, as recommended by the experts at CarGurus.
Front-Wheel Drive vs. All-Wheel Drive: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Which is best, front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)? Our in-depth guide runs through the pros and cons of each, to help you decide which is right for you.
3.9 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Anonymous
Reviewed a 1997 Ford 4 Dr XL 4WD SUV on Aug 26, 2010
Performance- Stock V6 is kinda ho' hum on acceleration, but then again a SUV is not a racing car. I am eventually gonna do a superchip, cold air intake, and exhaust to get another 20hp or so. Build Quality- The used 97 I got is pretty damn good overall. I need to do a couple minor things for the interior, but those I can find at the junk yard pretty cheap. As far as squeaks and rattles, just the normal on suspension, road noise is OK, but not really loud, and handling is pretty good for regular driving. I haven't done any off roading on it yet. Appearance- I would say the interior of the used 97 I got is a 9 out of 10. There are a couple of little things I need to do, but for a car that is over 10 years old it's very clean. Cost of Ownership- When I bought the car I knew I would have to put some money on top of what I paid for it. So far nothing unusual. It needed new brakes, Rea Sway Bar work, and some new lower ball joins. I have to point out that this rig has 122K on it, so over all not bad. Just normal wear and needing to replace a few things. Main thing is the eninge and transmission is still in tip top shape, running and idling like new. Cost of Ownership- I just got it, but I can allready say that gas milleage isn't that great. Maybe 14-15 city, around 20 hwy. Then again it's an SUV and a heavy rig to boot. So I didn't buy the rig expecting to get 20-30 mpg. Fun Factor- Car is awesome to drive. It handles well for city driving as long as you don't treat it like a wannabe race car, and I can't wait to see how it does with a bit of off roading when I stiffin up the suspension, and chasi next year.
Indy L
Reviewed a 1997 Ford 4 Dr XLT AWD SUV on Dec 23, 2007
Enjoyed owning this truck. AWD rocks.
Joel S
Reviewed a 1997 Ford 4 Dr XLT 4WD SUV on Jun 25, 2008
i think it's a nice vehicle overall. but due to a high profile and narrow stance, it does like to lean on fast turns. it has a decent-sized 4.0 v6 which is pretty good on acceleration for a truck but requires quite a push going up steep hills. the interior has well placed switches and a good display of gauges.
Jordan P
Reviewed a 1997 Ford 4 Dr Limited AWD SUV on Sep 3, 2010
When I first bought this back in 2006, I purchased it with the intention of it being a short-lived solution for how I could get around until the end of high school. It turned out to be a love affair; throughout the years I have grown to love this Explorer so much that I dread the day where I must get rid of it. Sporting the legendary 5.0 liter V8, my Explorer, while not especially fast, does exhibit the typical torque grunt of an eight cylinder engine. The build quality I have found is not typical of what most people think of when they think Explorer; it has held up superbly over the years, even during my abusive teen phase. The best thing about it? Its great to drive. The steering is light and uncommunicative, the brakes suck, the drivetrain is coarse and jittery. But I don't care. I love driving my Explorer.
1997 Ford Explorer Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 2 Dr Sport 4WD SUV | $23,620 |
| 4 Dr XL SUV | $22,010 |
1997 Ford Explorer Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 1997 Ford Explorer prices has changed over time.
See more price trends
