2003 Ford Explorer vs. 1995 Volkswagen Sharan

To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volkswagen Sharan would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. (172 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 267 kg more than 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. (235 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Volkswagen Sharan. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1995 Volkswagen Sharan has manual transmission. 1995 Volkswagen Sharan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Explorer 1995 Volkswagen Sharan
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Explorer Sharan
Year Released 2003 1995
Body Type SUV Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4605 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 236 HP 172 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 382 Nm 235 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2082 kg 1815 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4630 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1730 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2840 mm