2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 8 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 95 kg more than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 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 (382 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | GTI |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.5 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
