2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1971 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 12 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1971 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1971 Renault 12. 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 1971 Renault 12. 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 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1971 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
