2001 Audi A8 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 590 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 3994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2540 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2840 mm |
