1996 Volkswagen Passat vs. 2012 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 857 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Volkswagen Passat | 2012 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
Model | Passat | Explorer |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 290 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 345 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 2067 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2004 mm |