2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Chrysler Avenger

To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chrysler Avenger 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 151 more horse power than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1197 kg more than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Avenger.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Explorer 1981 Chrysler Avenger
Make Ford Chrysler
Model Explorer Avenger
Year Released 2008 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4013 cc 1295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 93 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 2077 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 5350 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3320 mm 2500 mm