1958 Ford Consul vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford Consul. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford Consul would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1958 Ford Consul. (47 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford Consul.
Because 1958 Ford Consul 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 1958 Ford Consul. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Ford Consul. (124 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Ford Consul. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1958 Ford Consul has manual transmission. 1958 Ford Consul will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford Consul | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Consul | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1702 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
