2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 5,751 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 776 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (374 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 5751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 374 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 87 L |
