2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Nissan Skyline. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Nissan Skyline. (133 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Nissan Skyline. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1978 Nissan Skyline has manual transmission. 1978 Nissan Skyline 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 | 1978 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Explorer | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
