1956 Jeep CJ5 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Jeep CJ5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Jeep CJ5 would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Jeep CJ5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1956 Jeep CJ5. (135 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1956 Jeep CJ5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 887 kg more than 1956 Jeep CJ5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Jeep CJ5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Ford Explorer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Jeep CJ5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Jeep CJ5. (325 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Jeep CJ5. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1956 Jeep CJ5 has manual transmission. 1956 Jeep CJ5 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:
| 1956 Jeep CJ5 | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Jeep | Ford |
| Model | CJ5 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3520 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2860 mm |
