1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ranger weights approximately 171 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger 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 1996 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | T5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
