2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Explorer 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 10 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1469 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTI has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | GTI |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
