2002 Ford Explorer vs. 1995 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (230 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 406 kg more than 1995 Ford Thunderbird.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1995 Ford Thunderbird (447 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 1995 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 1995 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 3797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 96.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1604 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
