1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg (180 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 404 kg more than 1997 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volkswagen Touareg (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2003 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 2304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
