1987 Buick Regal vs. 2011 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Buick Regal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Buick Regal would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1987 Buick Regal. (137 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1987 Buick Regal.

Because 1987 Buick Regal 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 1987 Buick Regal. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Buick Regal. (246 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Buick Regal.

Compare all specifications:

1987 Buick Regal 2011 Ford Explorer
Make Buick Ford
Model Regal Explorer
Year Released 1987 2011
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3128 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 137 HP 290 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 246 Nm 345 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4880 mm 5006 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 2004 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1788 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 70 L