2012 Ford Explorer vs. 1976 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1976 Holden Statesman. (238 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 532 kg more than 1976 Holden Statesman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Statesman 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 1976 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Explorer. (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Ford Explorer | 1976 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Explorer | Statesman |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 5040 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2067 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5006 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2004 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1788 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2900 mm |
