2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1959 Rover P5

To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 44 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1959 Rover P5. (106 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 498 kg more than 1959 Rover P5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Rover P5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Rover P5. (222 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Rover P5.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Explorer 1959 Rover P5
Make Ford Rover
Model Explorer P5
Year Released 2003 1959
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4605 cc 2995 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 236 HP 106 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Torque 382 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 90 mm 77.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 105 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2082 kg 1584 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4750 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2820 mm