2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 38 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
