1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 15 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 500 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2651 mm |
