1997 Ford Aerostar vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 1997 Ford Aerostar is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Aerostar (133 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Aerostar should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 560 kg more than 1997 Ford Aerostar.
Because 1981 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Aerostar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Patrol 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, 1997 Ford Aerostar (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Aerostar | 1981 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Aerostar | Patrol |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2980 mm |
