1998 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Ford Explorer. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 507 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | GTI |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
