2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Tempo 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 111 more horse power than 1989 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Tempo weights approximately 178 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, 1989 Ford Tempo, 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 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1989 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Explorer | Tempo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 4.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2540 mm |
