2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTD should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTD weights approximately 111 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD (350 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Explorer. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTD has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTD will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen GTD | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | GTD |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1409 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
