2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,041 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Holden Statesman (169 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 230 kg more than 1981 Holden Statesman.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Holden Statesman. 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, 1981 Holden Statesman (361 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 1981 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 1981 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Explorer | Statesman |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 5041 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2900 mm |
