1981 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort.
Because 2006 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (407 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2006 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2890 mm |
