1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Ford Explorer.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 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:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |
