1997 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1997 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 900 kg more than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 1981 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Explorer | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2530 mm |
