2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1974 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Passat 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 162 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1132 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Passat. (85 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 1974 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
