1985 Ford Fairlane vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,089 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1985 Ford Fairlane. (137 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 300 kg more than 1985 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 Ford Fairlane is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Ford Fairlane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Fairlane. (304 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Fairlane. 2011 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1985 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1985 Ford Fairlane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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