2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2010 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 7 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2010 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2010 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 371 kg more than 2003 Ford Explorer.
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, 2010 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2010 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4014 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3490 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
