2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Opel Manta
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Manta 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 58 more horse power than 1978 Opel Manta. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 900 kg more than 1978 Opel Manta. 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 1978 Opel Manta. 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 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Manta. (135 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1978 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Manta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
