2006 Ford Ranger vs. 1981 GMC Jimmy
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 6,210 cc (8 cylinders), 1981 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 GMC Jimmy. (130 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1981 GMC Jimmy.
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, 1981 GMC Jimmy (326 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ranger. (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ranger. 1981 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Ranger will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 1981 GMC Jimmy | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Ranger | Jimmy |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 6210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
