2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1963 Pontiac Tempest
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 5,341 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1963 Pontiac Tempest. (212 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1963 Pontiac Tempest. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 384 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
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. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1963 Pontiac Tempest has manual transmission. 1963 Pontiac Tempest will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1963 Pontiac Tempest | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Explorer | Tempest |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 5341 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2930 mm |
