1984 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2010 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2010 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 73 kg more than 2010 Ford Explorer.
Because 2010 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 2010 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2010 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2010 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Passat. 2010 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1984 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1984 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Volkswagen Passat | 2010 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Passat | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 254 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1045 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 3320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 85 L |
