1973 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (108 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1236 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Passat | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Passat | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2860 mm |
