2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 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 176 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1417 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. 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 Renault 4, 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 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (58 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1978 Renault 4 has manual transmission. 1978 Renault 4 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 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Explorer | 4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 38 L |
