1973 Ford Fairlane vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ford Fairlane (212 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 324 kg more than 1973 Ford Fairlane.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Ford Fairlane. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1973 Ford Fairlane (427 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ford Fairlane | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fairlane | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 4016 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.7 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 3070 mm |
