2001 Ford Explorer vs. 1959 Rover P5
To start off, 2001 Ford Explorer is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Rover P5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rover P5 would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Explorer (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1959 Rover P5. (106 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Rover P5 weights approximately 286 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Because 1959 Rover P5 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 1959 Rover P5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Rover P5. (222 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Rover P5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 1959 Rover P5 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Explorer | P5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 63 L |
