2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1922 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Ford Explorer | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Passat |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |