2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (399 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 2013 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 (369 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Passat. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 399 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 369 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1835 mm |
