1997 Volkswagen W12 vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2013 Ford Explorer. (286 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2013 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford Explorer weights approximately 946 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 2013 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen W12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Ford Explorer. (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen W12 | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | W12 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5600 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 719 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1803 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
