2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1979 Ford LTD
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford LTD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford LTD would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford LTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1979 Ford LTD. (129 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford LTD.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Ford Explorer (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford LTD. (302 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford LTD.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1979 Ford LTD | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | LTD |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1980 mm |
