2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (172 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 432 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. (235 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1993 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1993 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 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 | 972 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1620 mm |
