2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 365 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan. (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Multivan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2006 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Multivan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 2304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 12.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
