1959 Austin-Healey 3000 vs. 2009 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. (124 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 weights approximately 177 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.

Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. (237 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin-Healey 3000. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 has manual transmission. 1959 Austin-Healey 3000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Austin-Healey 3000 2009 Ford Explorer
Make Austin-Healey Ford
Model 3000 Explorer
Year Released 1959 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2911 cc 4009 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 124 HP 211 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 237 Nm 344 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.3:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1143 kg 966 kg
Vehicle Length 4010 mm 4920 mm
Vehicle Width 1540 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1830 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 85 L