2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1971 Mazda 818
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1971 Mazda 818. (80 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 2052 kg more than 1971 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mazda 818 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mazda 818. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mazda 818. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1971 Mazda 818 has manual transmission. 1971 Mazda 818 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 1971 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 818 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2290 mm |
