2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 2011 Volkswagen T5.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Volkswagen T5. 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
