2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (158 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 334 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (325 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Passat. (250 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Passat |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
