2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
