2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra 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 110 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 854 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. 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, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (150 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra 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 | 1996 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
