2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 (211 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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 (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen 1600 has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 7.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 40 L |
