2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 138 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (305 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 70 L |
