2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is newer by 6 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 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 726 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan. 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 (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 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. 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
