2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Vauxhall Chevette
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Vauxhall Chevette would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (56 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1125 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. (89 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Chevette. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1981 Vauxhall Chevette has manual transmission. 1981 Vauxhall Chevette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1981 Vauxhall Chevette | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Explorer | Chevette |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1256 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 45 L |
