1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 13 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 196 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Explorer. (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Routan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3078 mm |
