2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza

To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza 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 123 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1137 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Explorer 1981 Nissan Stanza
Make Ford Nissan
Model Explorer Stanza
Year Released 2008 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4013 cc 1809 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 87 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Vehicle Weight 2077 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 5350 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 3320 mm 2480 mm