1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2006 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (59 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 2148 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite has manual transmission. 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2006 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
| Model | Sprite | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 92.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 2862 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 85 L |
