1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 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, 1997 Ford Explorer (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 602 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
