2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Lancia Gamma

To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 751 kg more than 1978 Lancia Gamma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Gamma, 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Gamma. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1978 Lancia Gamma has manual transmission. 1978 Lancia Gamma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Explorer 1978 Lancia Gamma
Make Ford Lancia
Model Explorer Gamma
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4013 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 116 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 8.9:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2077 kg 1326 kg
Vehicle Length 5350 mm 4580 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3320 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 59 L