2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1972 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1027 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen K 70, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1972 Volkswagen K 70 has manual transmission. 1972 Volkswagen K 70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1972 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | K 70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
