2005 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster
To start off, 2005 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster weights approximately 317 kg more than 2005 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster. (238 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 1978 Plymouth Trail Duster | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Explorer | Trail Duster |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 3678 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2700 mm |
