2004 Audi A8 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (220 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 56 kg more than 2002 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 4009 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 85 L |
