2004 Audi A8 vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Audi A8 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2004 Audi A8. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A8.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A8. (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A8. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2004 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A8 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 70 L |
