2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Vectra weights approximately 148 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1988 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1988 Opel Vectra 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 | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Vectra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 75 L |
