1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 454 kg more than 1976 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Aspen | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 117.5 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3490 mm |
