1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 634 kg more than 1988 Dodge Spirit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Dodge Spirit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Dodge Spirit. (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Dodge Spirit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Spirit | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2840 mm |
