1990 Ford Fairlane vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,948 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1990 Ford Fairlane. (186 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Fairlane.
Because 1990 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 1990 Ford Fairlane. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Fairlane. (338 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Fairlane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Fairlane | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fairlane | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3948 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2860 mm |
