2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1983 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (148 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fairlane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1232 kg more than 1983 Ford Fairlane. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 1983 Ford Fairlane. 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fairlane. (326 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fairlane. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1983 Ford Fairlane has manual transmission. 1983 Ford Fairlane 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 | 1983 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2950 mm |
