2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 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 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Patrol. (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Patrol.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1981 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2980 mm |
