2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1989 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 238 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (54 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2006 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (407 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 311 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 1989 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |
