1971 Volkswagen K 70 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 889 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1971 Volkswagen K 70 has manual transmission. 1971 Volkswagen K 70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | K 70 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1604 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 85 L |
