2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 610 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2651 mm |
