2008 Ford Explorer vs. 1996 Skoda Octavia

To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Skoda Octavia 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 120 more horse power than 1996 Skoda Octavia. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 792 kg more than 1996 Skoda Octavia. 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, 1996 Skoda Octavia, 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 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Skoda Octavia. (200 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Skoda Octavia. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1996 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 1996 Skoda Octavia 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 1996 Skoda Octavia
Make Ford Skoda
Model Explorer Octavia
Year Released 2008 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4013 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 1900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2077 kg 1285 kg
Vehicle Length 5350 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 3320 mm 2520 mm