1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1224 kg more than 1977 Ford Fiesta. 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 1977 Ford Fiesta. 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 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2840 mm |
