1998 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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, 1998 Ford Explorer (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1998 Ford Explorer.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | T5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
