The Explorer is available in either two- or four-wheel drive. The four-wheel drive version includes a two-speed transfer case and automatic-locking hubs. Shifting into four-wheel drive is as easy as pressing a button and can be done "on the fly." With 6.3 inches of ground clearance, huge 235175ZR15 Firestone Radial ATX tires, and a 2.48:1 low range (also pushbutton activated), the Explorer can pick its way through some fairly imposing terrain when the need arises. Shifting back into two-wheel drive, however, requires you to back up a few feet to disengage the front hubs, a procedure that can be easily overlooked by the inattentive driver and wearing on the hubs.

Underneath, the Explorer sports Ford's Twin I-Beam (2wd) or Twin Traction-Beam (4wd) semi-independent front suspension and a solid-axle leaf-spring rear suspension. This softly sprung setup is plush and smooth on the highway, just what the average family driver is looking for. Unfortunately, anything rougher brings out the Explorer's darker side. Should you venture off-pavement with any speed, be prepared to be bumped around.

The recirculating-ball steering system is another weak point. In an attempt to make around-town driving and parking-lot maneuverability as easy as possible, Ford engineers dialed in too much power assist, which produces a twitchy on-center feel and effectively numbs feedback from the front tires. A small price to pay? Obviously thousands of buyers think so.

Speaking of price, the base Eddie Bauer Explorer rings in at $21,566, which reflects the ever-increasing cost of this class of vehicle, but is in line with similarly equipped models.

The Explorer isn't the perfect sport/utility. But considering its overall versatility, comfortable, ergonomic interior, abundance of room for hauling kids or cargo, strong engine, good towing capabilities, and the option of four-wheel drive, the Explorer has what people are looking for today. And for Ford, that's making the worst of times seem much better.

1991-Ford-Explorer-front-three-quarter-view2

1991 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer
Body style	4-door, 5-passenger
Vehicle configuration	Front engine. four-wheel drive
Engine configuralion	60-degree V-6, liquid cooled, cast iron block and heads
Engine displacement, ci/cc	244/4000
Compression ratio	9.0:1
Fuel/induction system	Multipoint EFI
Horsepower hp @ rpm, SAE net	155 @ 4200
Torque lb-ft @ rpm, SAE net	220 @ 2400
Horsepower/liter	38.8
Transmission type	4-speed auto.
Axle ralio	3.65:1
Final-drive ratio	2.66:1
Wheelbase, in/mm	111.9/2842
Track, f/r, in/mm	58.3158.3/1480/1480
Length, in/mm	184.3/4681
Width, in/mm	70.2/1783
Height, in./mm	67.3/1709
Ground clearance, in/mm	6.3/161
Manufacturer's curb weight, lb	4233
Weight distribution, f/r, %,	53/47
Cargo capacity, cu ft	81.6
Fuel capacity, gal	19.0
Weight/power ratio, lb/hp	27.3
EPA city/hwy fuel economy, mpg	15/20
Suspension, f/r	Twin Traction Beam/live axle
Steering	Recirculating ball, power assist
Ratio	17.0:1
Tums, lock to lock	4.2
Tuming circle	37.0
Brakes, f/r	Vented discs/drums
Anti-lock	Standard on rear
Wheels	15x7.0
Tires	235175ZR15 Firestone Radial ATX
Acceleration, sec
0-30 mph	3.5
0-40 mph	5.3
0-50 mph	7.8
0-60 mph	10.8
0-70 mph	14.7
0-80 mph	18.5
Standing quarter mile, sec @ mph	17.9 @ 75.8
Braking, ft
30-0 mph	34.0
60-0 mph	144.0
Lateral acceleration, g	0.7
Speed through 600-ft slatom, mph	55.2
Base price	$21,586
Price as tested	$24,564