1987 Lincoln Continental vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 4,940 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1987 Lincoln Continental. (148 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1987 Lincoln Continental. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 352 kg more than 1987 Lincoln Continental. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Lincoln Continental 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 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1987 Lincoln Continental (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lincoln Continental | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Lincoln | Ford |
| Model | Continental | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4940 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 2067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2860 mm |
