1971 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort 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 173 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Explorer weights approximately 161 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Ford Escort. 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 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1971 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1971 Ford Escort 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:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2009 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 344 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2890 mm |
