2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1999 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 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 107 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 303 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, 1999 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. (141 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Passat. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1999 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 | 1999 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Passat |
Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 207 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 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 | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |